Explore life on the edge of frontier and Indian Territory through the stories of soldiers, the Trail of Tears, scandals, outlaws, and lawmen who pursued them. From the establishment of the first Fort Smith on December 25, 1817, to the final days of Judge Isaac C. Parker's jurisdiction over Indian Territory in 1896, For
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe Gallows and Commissary are open during Visitor Center hours, which may vary by season. Please check Visitor Center Hours for more information. Park grounds are open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minut
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 4797833961 · fosm_parkinfo@nps.gov
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North Interstate 540 & Fayetteville: Take Interstate 40 Westbound to Interstate 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave and continue towards downtown Fort Smith. In t
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Fort Smith National Historic Site — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Fort Smith National Historic Site?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at Fort Smith National Historic Site.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
The Gallows and Commissary are open during Visitor Center hours, which may vary by season. Please check Visitor Center Hours for more information. Park grounds are open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minut
Nearby sites
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
Arkansas River - W.D. Mayo Pool
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.